American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the term for a system of describing and identifying land by measures and direction from a point of reference?

1. Physical description.

2. Legal description.

3. Metes and Bounds.

4. Base and Meridian.

The correct answer is: Metes and Bounds.

The term "Metes and Bounds" refers specifically to a method used in land surveying that describes the boundaries of a parcel of land by detailing the distances (metes) and angles (bounds) from specific reference points. This technique establishes a starting point, then outlines the perimeter of the property through a series of directions and distances, which is particularly useful for irregularly shaped tracts of land. This method has historical roots and remains relevant today, especially in the eastern United States, where land surveys often employ this descriptive technique for defining property lines. It contrasts with more systematic grid-based approaches like the "Base and Meridian" system, which relies on a network of latitude and longitude lines for surveys. In the context of property law and real estate, recognizing the specific terms used in surveying is crucial for understanding property descriptions. "Legal description" refers to the formal description of a property as it is defined in legal documents, while "Physical description" generally aligns more with the characteristics of the land itself rather than its boundaries.